Urgent action needed to address rampant sale of toxic beauty products
THE recent revelation that thousands of Filipinos are unknowingly using beauty products laden with mercury is an alarming and distressing issue that demands immediate attention. The presence of mercury in these cosmetics poses significant health risks, including damage to the brain, nervous system, and kidneys. Moreover, it can cause skin-related problems such as rashes, blotchy spots, and a grayish complexion. The longer and more frequently these products are used, the greater the danger to one’s health.
The Ecowaste Coalition’s exposé on the rampant sale of imported skin-whitening products containing mercury in Pasay City is deeply concerning. It is disheartening to witness such flagrant violation of regulations, as if the prohibition on mercury-laden cosmetics were inconsequential. The fact that more than 20 retail stores have been identified as selling these toxic products demonstrates the urgent need for action. (Read the B M story: “More than 20 stores in Pasay City sell ‘mercury cosmetics,’” May 10, 2024).
Mercury and its compounds are explicitly listed as prohibited ingredients in cosmetics, according to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ Cosmetic Directive. This directive also sets a maximum limit of one part per million for mercury as a heavy metal contaminant in cosmetics. The violation of these regulations is not only a threat to public health but also a disregard for the established standards intended to protect consumers.
The open sale of these hazardous products in Metro Manila is deeply concerning. Establishments such as Baclaran Terminal Plaza Mall, Victory Pasay Mall, Wellcome Plaza, Metro Point Mall, Two Shopping Center, Saulog-vergara Building, Baclaran Bagong Milenyo Plaza, and even a perfume store near a popular fast-food chain are all part of this illicit trade. This widespread availability of banned cosmetic products raises significant concerns about the effectiveness of monitoring and enforcement procedures.
It is disconcerting to note that some of the prohibited cosmetics have been on the market since 2010, indicating a failure in regulatory oversight. The fact that banned cosmetics from Pakistan, China, Indonesia, and Thailand are implicated in this issue highlights the need for international cooperation and stricter border controls to prevent the smuggling of contraband cosmetics.
The responsibility to address this issue lies not only with the local government but also with national agencies such as customs, health, trade, and the police. These agencies must collaborate effectively to put an end to the unlawful trade of mercury cosmetics. It is crucial to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the health of Filipino consumers.
Concerted enforcement actions must be accompanied by a parallel advocacy campaign that challenges the normalization of skin lightening and embraces the diversity and equity of all skin tones. The promotion of self-acceptance and appreciation of natural beauty is essential to counter the societal pressure that fuels the demand for these dangerous products.
Internationally, the Minamata Convention on Mercury has already banned mercury-laden cosmetics due to their high risks. The World Health Organization has also classified mercury as one of the 10 chemicals of public health concern. WHO warns about the adverse effects of mercury-containing skinlightening products, such as skin rashes, discoloration, scarring, and reduced dermal resistance to skin disorders. Using these products repeatedly may cause harm to essential organs like the kidneys, brain, and central nervous system.
It is inexcusable that this illegal trade in toxic cosmetics is being allowed to persist. Local and national authorities must take urgent, coordinated action to crack down on the smuggling and sale of these banned products. Concerted enforcement efforts to seize contraband shipments and shut down offending retailers are an essential first step.
The gravity of the situation demands immediate action. Regulatory bodies must strengthen their monitoring and enforcement efforts to remove these hazardous products from the market. Retailers found in violation of regulations should face severe penalties to deter others from engaging in this illicit trade. Additionally, it is important to launch consumer education campaigns to inform the public about the dangers of mercury-laden cosmetics and to promote safer and healthier alternatives.